Addressing the 40th Foundation Day of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced a groundbreaking achievement in India's pharmaceutical sector. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has developed an indigenous technology to produce paracetamol, a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer, marking a significant step towards reducing dependence on imported raw materials. This innovation aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India).

The indigenously developed paracetamol will be produced domestically by Karnataka-based Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals Ltd, offering an affordable alternative and boosting India’s self-reliance in medicine manufacturing. “This initiative not only reduces our dependency on imports but also sets a benchmark for technological self-sufficiency in critical healthcare,” Dr. Singh emphasized.

Celebrating Four Decades of Scientific Achievements

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded DSIR for its 40 years of contributions to India’s scientific and industrial progress. He highlighted CSIR’s historic role in fostering innovation and industry collaboration, noting the organization’s recent strides, including the development of hydrogen buses, biofuels, and the success of the Aroma Mission, which showcased lavender cultivation in the Republic Day tableau.

The Foundation Day celebration also marked the transfer of 16 new technologies developed by CSIR. Of these, nine were from CSIR-CSIO, Chennai, and six from CSIR-CEERI, Pilani, under the “100 Days, 100 Technologies” campaign. These innovations, spanning IoT-enabled industrial instruments and healthcare applications, were transferred to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) registered with Laghu Udyog Bharati. Dr. Singh commended the campaign’s success, with 57 technologies already transferred, demonstrating the government’s commitment to scaling up indigenous innovations.

Strengthening India’s Tech Ecosystem

The minister emphasized the need for synergy between government initiatives and private enterprise, urging stakeholders to explore non-governmental funding and knowledge-sharing partnerships. Citing the example of Anusandhan NRF, he noted that 60% of its funding would come from non-governmental sources, paving the way for enhanced resource mobilization and innovation.

Dr. Singh credited Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for breaking traditional barriers to innovation, fostering collaboration between government and non-government sectors, and positioning India as a global leader in technological advancements. He highlighted India’s achievements in the space sector, including successful satellite launches by startups and ISRO’s landmark SPADEX mission, establishing the nation as a frontrunner in space docking technology.

Women and Youth at the Forefront

Reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive development, Dr. Singh called for increased support for women-led startups and scientists. “Prime Minister Modi’s belief in women-led development has inspired us to provide all necessary assistance to women innovators and entrepreneurs,” he said.

Dr. Singh also underscored the importance of nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of innovation through initiatives such as “One Week, One Theme” and “One Week, One Lab,” aimed at accelerating the pace of scientific discovery and industrial application.

A Vision for 2025 and Beyond

Concluding his address, Dr. Singh set an ambitious vision for 2025, predicting a “power-packed year” for science and technology with numerous new ventures on the horizon. He called for a shift towards a product-based economy, urging India to emulate global leaders like the USA, where technology significantly contributes to economic growth. “Our products must be designed and developed indigenously to truly achieve self-reliance,” he said.

Recognizing Contributions

Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary DSIR and Director General of CSIR, highlighted the signing of the Guwahati Science Declaration, which envisions India as a global economic hub by 2047. Prof. A.K. Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, echoed these aspirations, stressing the need to transition from a service-based economy to a technology-driven product economy.

The event saw the participation of senior scientists, industry leaders, and MSME representatives, underscoring the collaborative spirit that drives India’s scientific and industrial advancements. As DSIR celebrated four decades of innovation, the announcements made on this occasion reaffirmed India’s resolve to lead in science and technology, fostering a future of self-reliance and global leadership.